Keeneland Extends Phoenix Stakes Sponsorship

Keeneland Association announced it has extended its sponsorship of the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes (Ire-I) at The Curragh Racecourse in Ireland for an additional three years.

The six-furlong event, first run in 1902, has been sponsored by Keeneland since 2010.

"The Keeneland Phoenix Stakes has an outstanding record for attracting some of the best 2-year-olds in Europe and we look forward to working closely with the team at Keeneland to ensure the top owners and trainers continue to target the race with their top juveniles," The Curragh general manager Paul Hensey said in a release.

"Keeneland deeply values its relationship with The Curragh," said Keeneland president Bill Thomason. "Ireland's Thoroughbred community has been an important part of Keeneland's sales program for decades so this partnership is a natural fit. It also is gratifying to partner with such a prestigious international racing venue where racing is showcased at such a high level."

The 2013 edition of the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes is scheduled for Aug. 11.